Fin's Fish Guide
The Balston's perchlet (Nannatherina balstoni) is a freshwater fish of the family Percichthyidae that grows up to 9 cm.
Description
Balston's pygmy perch is a pygmy perch (Percichthyidae) from southwestern Australia and is regarded as the rarest of the endemic freshwater fishes there. The species is small and has a stocky body that shows finer colours in the spawning season. It inhabits tea-coloured, acidic forest streams and swamps that change level seasonally. As a small predator it snaps small invertebrates and insect larvae. Through habitat loss and introduced fishes it is critically endangered. The species is harmless to humans.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Balston's perchlet?
The Balston's perchlet has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a plain pattern. Rarest endemic freshwater fish of south-western Australia; critically endangered.
Where does the Balston's perchlet live?
The Balston's perchlet lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. Southwestern Australia; tea-coloured acidic forest streams and swamps.
How big does the Balston's perchlet get?
The Balston's perchlet grows to a maximum of about 9 cm. On average the species is around 6 cm.
Is the Balston's perchlet dangerous to humans?
No, the Balston's perchlet is harmless to humans. None required: this species is harmless to humans.
Is the Balston's perchlet edible?
The Balston's perchlet is not usually eaten.
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Percichthyidae
Want the complete picture on the Balston's perchlet?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Balston's perchlet is one of 12,519 species in the app.